Santini focused on EURO 2004™
Friday, June 4, 2004
Article summary
Jacques Santini says his decision to manage Tottenham Hotspur FC will not affect French hopes in Portugal.
Article body
'The same will'
The France coach will part company with Les Bleus after UEFA EURO 2004™ but is determined to go out with a bang. "I told my staff that we will carry on with the same will," he said. "This now allows us to prepare ourselves quietly."
Breaking the news
Santini revealed that he first broke the news of his departure to his former AS Saint-Etienne team-mate Michel Platini, who is also vice-chairman of the French Football Federation (FFF). He then informed FFF president Claude Simonet, who told Santini that he was "a bit amazed" by the news.
Moving on
The 52-year-old former Olympique Lyonnais coach defended his right to move on after the European Championship. "This is my choice to give my career a new direction," he said. "The same thing happens to players under contract themselves. If [Bixente] Lizarazu or [Olivier] Dacourt change clubs next week, you will write stories about them and everybody would find this logical."
Full concentration
On his plans for the next few days Santini said: "After [Sunday's game against] Ukraine, the [France] squad will be given a day-and-a-half off. Maybe I will work on transfers for Tottenham but afterwards I will fully concentrate on EURO."
Players' backing
Santini also received the backing from the players in the France squad. AS Roma midfield player Dacourt said: "I understand his decision and whoever may be in charge of the team, I am there in order to serve my country."
'Much dignity'
Defender Lizarazu added: "He announced it with much dignity and I am absolutely not shocked at all. Anyway, we are determined to bring back the Cup home."
Final friendly
Before leaving for Portugal, where they face England in their Group B opener on 13 June, France play their last pre-tournament friendly on Sunday at the Stade de France against Ukraine.
